I don't like the word 'recession.' Never have. It insinuates that the only thing that makes the economy go round is business profit.

In reality, an economy has a much broader meaning. It is the cycle of production and distribution, and that is not only handled by business. In mixed economies, it used to be far better balanced. In neoliberal economies, virtually all production and distribution rests with the business sector.

This weakens the economy. It is exacerbated when the country does not produce its own goods. So when another country does not or cannot supply goods, it affects the buying country.

Germany has a couple of problems. It depends for its energy on Russia. It sells mostly machinery to China. Its citizenry lives under a bureaucratic machine that limits creativity. And, lastly, its internet system is way behind other countries. If these things are not fixed in the very near future, I think Germany will begin to lose its place in the world economy.

Will Germans become poorer? I think they'll manage. :) However, I don't think it's going to be easy.